Sustainable fashion is about creating and curating clothing which can be worn for years to come. It also emphasizes reducing waste, conserving natural resources, and considering the long-term impacts of the garments that are bought and used. Read on to learn what you need to know about sustainable fashion.
Consider Clothing Material
When shopping for sustainable fashion, the first thing to consider is the garment’s material. Opt for natural materials like organic cotton, linen, hemp, and silk or recycled materials like recycled plastic bottles and recycled wool. Synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, and acrylic should be avoided, as they are derived from petrochemicals and can shed thousands of microfibers that end up in the ocean and pollute our water sources.
Pay Attention to Dyes
When shopping for sustainable fashion, it’s important to pay attention to the dyes as well. Natural dyes, such as plant-based dyes, are a more sustainable option than synthetic dyes, as the latter may contain harmful chemicals.
Look for Labels
Look for sustainable fashion labels that are committed to ethical and responsible practices. Common label seals may include Fairtrade, sustainable apparel certified, or GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard).
Do Your Research
Do your research on the brands you plan to buy from. Are they transparent about their practices, processes and materials? How do they manage their supply chains, and how do they ensure their production workers are treated fairly and get a living wage?
Shop Secondhand
One of the best ways to practice sustainable fashion is by shopping secondhand. Buying used clothing not only extends the life of existing garments, but it also prevents new clothing from being produced and keeps new materials from being used.
Prioritize Quality Over Quantity
Finally, it’s important to prioritize quality over quantity when shopping for sustainable fashion. Choose carefully-made garments that are designed to last and can be easily repaired or updated down the line.
Conclusion
Sustainable fashion is about creating and curating clothing that can be worn for years to come and considering the long-term impacts of the garments. It’s important to pay attention to the material and dyes used, look for labels that represent ethical practices, do research on the brands you plan to buy from, shop secondhand when possible, and prioritize quality over quantity.
